If you work in tech or a performance-based industry, a large part of your compensation might come from restricted stock units (RSUs) or annual bonuses. While these can be powerful income sources, many homebuyers discover that lenders don’t always treat them the same as base salary when reviewing a mortgage application.
So, can you use RSU or bonus income to qualify for a mortgage? The answer is often yes — but with conditions.
- Lenders Want to See Consistency
Mortgage underwriters focus on whether your RSU or bonus income is ongoing and reliable. That usually means:
- At least two years of documented history showing consistent payouts.
- A clear vesting schedule for RSUs.
- Bonus records that show year-over-year stability.
If your income is brand new or inconsistent, it may not count toward qualifying.
- Required Documentation for RSU and Bonus Income
To get credit for this income, you’ll need to provide:
- RSU award letters and vesting schedules (from your company’s stock plan portal).
- W-2s and pay stubs showing vested stock or bonus payouts.
- Tax returns confirming past years’ income.
Your lender wants to see proof of both history and likelihood of continuation.
- Vested vs. Unvested RSUs
This is a critical distinction:
- Vested RSUs (already yours) can count as income if there’s a reliable track record.
- Unvested RSUs (future stock grants) typically do not count since they’re not guaranteed.
Some lenders may consider a portion of unvested RSUs if your company regularly renews grants — but this is not universal.
- Bonus Income Rules
When it comes to using bonus income for mortgage qualification, lenders usually:
- Average your last two years of bonuses.
- Look for consistency and stability in the amounts.
- May require an employer verification letter confirming bonuses are expected to continue.
Big swings in bonus amounts can reduce how much of that income gets counted.
- Lender Flexibility Matters
Not all lenders handle RSU and bonus income the same way. Some are more tech-savvy and open to alternative compensation structures, while others are stricter. Working with a broker who knows which lenders accept RSU or bonus income can make a huge difference in how much home you qualify for.
✅ Bottom Line
Yes, you can use RSU or bonus income to qualify for a mortgage — but you’ll need consistent history, strong documentation, and a lender that understands your pay structure.
💡 If you’re a tech employee or receive bonus income and want to explore how it can help you qualify, let’s connect. I’ll walk you through which lenders and programs are the best fit for your situation.
